A multi-purpose system benefiting the Northwest

Snake River dams provide many significant benefits to our region. They keep our local economy strong and help retain jobs by providing businesses with affordable, reliable transportation to move goods to international markets. The dams also help protect our environment. Barging has the lowest exhaust emissions of all transportation modes and dams provide clean, renewable hydropower to keep Northwest homes and businesses warm and bright.

Safe, efficient navigation

One barge tow carries as much cargo as one and a half unit trains or 538 trucks. Barging reduces exhaust emissions, keeps transportation costs low and prevents congestion on our roads.

Clean, renewable hydropower

Protecting our salmon

Record numbers of Snake River sockeye are returning to Redfish Lake. In 2014, we saw the biggest return since sockeye were listed in 1991. Click here to learn more about the salmon restoration efforts that are occurring in our region.